Tech Exploration I

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QR Codes in the CTE Classroom


Workshop Posted: January 2012

Workplace Employability Skills: COMMUNICATE (write and speak so others pay attention and understand), MANAGE INFORMATION (locate, gather, and organize information using appropriate technology and information systems)

Instructional Strategies: Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity, Design and Develop Digital Age Learning Experiences and Assessments, Model Digital Age Work and Learning



Why Teach QR Codes? QR Codes in the Workplace

Agribusiness/Information Technology





Engineering/Information Technology (it took engineers and information technology experts to create and support this product)



More information and videos on QR codes:

Overview


In this Tech Exploration you will create a QR code to enhance a learning activity or lab in your classroom. We will explore the uses of technology in the real world and classrooms and then determine how QR codes can best be used for presenting information in engaging ways for students.



What Are QR Codes?











Tool Introduction



QR Readers

The next step for you is to find a QR Code Reader application for your device. Grab your smartphone or a computer with a webcam and get ready to download a reader. You may
already have a basic barcode reader, but check out the apps below to find a full featured
reader that can turn QR codes into websites, contact data, calendar events, and more!

Once you've decided which app you want, use your device's Marketplace or Store to install it.













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Activity #1: Scan a Code


Step 1: Download one of the above QR Reader application to your phone or computer.

Step 2: Look around you and find a QR code or two to scan.

Step 3: Try out your QR Reader. How was your experience enhanced or not enhanced by scanning the QR code for the item or location?





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QR Codes in the CTE Classroom


To demonstrate how teacher and students might use QR codes in the CTE classroom we
are going to use a greenhouse workspace/classroom.



Here are several other ideas from Edutopia for using QR codes in any classroom.
Twelve Ideas for Teaching with QR Codes by Edutopia







Activity #2: Create a QR Code







Step 1: Identify a QR Code Generator that you would like to use from the list below:







Step 2: Find a piece of equipment or tool in your classroom which requires students to follow certain safety procedures. You will create a QR code with the safety information and
procedures for this piece of equipment. (Note: You may create a QR code for another
specific need in your classroom other than safety procedures.)







Step 3: Determine the safety content you want to communicate to students. Here are some
ideas for content that will be referenced by the QR code you create:
  • A code that references text: a simple reminder to wear goggles or other safety
    equipment
  • A code that references a url: a YouTube video that demonstrates proper operation
    of the equipment
  • A code that references a url: a website listing step-by-step directions or more in-depth safety information







Step 4: Using one of the above QR Generators create a code based on the desired content
by selecting the content type and entering the content. Then generate the QR code.

QR_Generator_Screen.png



Step 5: After the code is generated, print out the QR code and attach it to the equipment in
your classroom. Test out the code by scanning it with your mobile device. (Note: If you will
be using a computer with a webcam for students to scan the QR codes, print or attach the
QR codes to a 3 x 5 card. This will permit students to take the QR code to the computer
station where it can be scanned.)

Example:
From Toaster Oven


Step 6: What other ways do you think QR codes can be used in the CTE classroom to
enhance learning for students? Continue below with a quick reflection activity.





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Reflect and Share


After completing Activities 1-3, post a reflection including your thoughts and ideas, tips, or
tricks for using QR codes in the CTE classroom on Google+. Use the hashtags #st4stem and #techexplorations.

Like to Know More?

If you enjoyed this learning opportunity and would like to learn more, please continue with the other Tech Explorations in CTE and/or join the ST4 Fellowship Opportunity.